How strength training can improve bone density, prevent osteoporosis
WOMEN, especially as they age, are at higher risk of osteoporosis due to hormonal changes. Strength training not only builds muscle but also promotes bone health by placing stress on bones, stimulating growth, and increasing bone density. Workout developer Mesha Gaye Wright says this form of exercise can be particularly empowering for women, as it improves overall strength, posture, and reduces the risk of fractures later in life.
“Additionally, strength training for women can help with metabolism by increasing muscle mass, which boosts the number of calories burned at rest. This combination of benefits makes it a vital component of long-term fitness and health,” Wright said.
She said strength training plays a significant role in women’s fitness, especially when it comes to addressing long-term health concerns like osteoporosis, improving metabolism, and enhancing overall body strength.
Here’s how:
Osteoporosis prevention
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. Women are more prone to this, particularly after menopause, due to a decrease in oestrogen levels, which is essential for bone health. Strength training is an excellent preventive measure for this because:
– When muscles contract during lifting or resistance exercises, they pull on the bones, placing stress on them. This stimulates bone-forming cells, increasing bone density.
– Exercises like squats, lunges, deadlifts, and even resistance band workouts provide weight-bearing activity that strengthens not only muscles but bones as well.
– Strength training also improves balance and posture, reducing the risk of falls, which is crucial as weak bones are more prone to fractures.
Metabolic boost & fat loss
A key benefit of strength training for women is its ability to increase metabolism, which is essential for maintaining a healthy weight or losing fat. Here’s how it works:
– Muscles require more energy to maintain than fat. When women engage in strength training and build lean muscle mass, their resting metabolic rate increases. This means they burn more calories throughout the day, even while at rest.
– Strength training helps reduce body fat by preserving muscle tissue while losing fat. Unlike cardiovascular exercises, which can sometimes lead to both muscle and fat loss, strength training focuses on muscle retention, improving body composition.
Hormonal balance
For women, strength training can help balance hormones such as insulin, cortisol, and even oestrogen. This is beneficial for several reasons:
– Increased muscle mass improves insulin sensitivity, helping the body manage blood sugar levels more effectively, reducing the risk of diabetes.
– Regular resistance training can help lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which is beneficial for mental health and weight management.
Improved confidence and body composition
One often-overlooked benefit of strength training is its positive impact on body image and confidence. As women become stronger and notice changes in muscle tone and body shape, they often feel more empowered and confident in their physical abilities. Strength training allows for progressive improvements, where small victories — like lifting heavier weights or completing more reps — translate into a greater sense of achievement.
Unlike the myth that lifting weights makes women bulky, strength training actually helps in sculpting lean, toned muscles. Combined with proper nutrition, it leads to a more defined body shape without excessive bulk.
Functional strength and everyday activities
The strength gained from resistance training goes beyond the gym. It improves functional strength, which helps women perform everyday activities more easily, such as carrying groceries, lifting children, or even gardening. Stronger muscles and bones also reduce the risk of injury during routine tasks.
Wright said before beginning, women should ensure certain things are in place:
Start gradually: For beginners, it’s essential to start with lighter weights or bodyweight exercises, gradually increasing resistance as strength improves.
Focus on compound movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, and push-ups target multiple muscle groups, maximising the benefits.
Consistency is key: Regular, consistent training (two to three times per week) is crucial for seeing results, particularly in bone density and muscle mass.
Rest and recovery: Adequate rest between workouts is vital for muscle recovery and growth.
